DOHA: Real Madrid are a better team than they were a month ago but must be wary of Pachuca’s “quality”, said manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against the Mexican club early tomorrow morning.
Since suffering a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool in the Champions League, Madrid have won three and drawn one of their last five games in all competitions.
Madrid are third in La Liga with 37 points from 17 matches, one point behind leaders Barcelona, who have played one more match.
Pachuca defeated Egyptian club Al-Ahly 6-5 on penalties after a goalless draw to qualify for the Intercontinental Cup final.
However, Ancelotti did not underestimate the challenge of their opponents.
“I think we came into this match better than a month ago. We are highly motivated and excited to bring home the Intercontinental Cup again,” said Ancelotti ahead of the clash at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.
“Every game is a trap, if Pachuca qualify it’s because they have something. We have to respect them for the quality they have. Finals are often a special feeling and a worry before the game,” he said.
“They have their own character, it’s a very important match for them. They have a clear system, they are a very dynamic team. I expect an entertaining match.”
Regarding injuries, Madrid will not take any risks with striker Kylian Mbappe.
The 25-year-old France captain, who was substituted in the first half of Madrid’s 3-2 win at Atalanta in the Champions League last week, was confirmed to have suffered a left thigh injury and missed Saturday’s 3-3 La Liga draw at 13th-placed Rayo Vallecano.
“Kylian’s situation is simple, he trained yesterday and had a good feeling. Today is important where he will evaluate his feelings,” said Ancelotti.
“If he’s good, he’ll play, but if there’s even a small risk, he won’t play.”